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Crispy Bacon BLT Macaroni Salad

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BLT Macaroni Salad Recipe

Description:

Indulge in the delicious fusion of flavors with this BLT Macaroni Salad, a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or any casual gathering. Combining the beloved elements of a classic BLT with the heartiness of macaroni, this salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes. It is simple to prepare and makes for a refreshing, yet satisfying meal.

Categories and Keywords:

  • Recipe Category: Pork
  • Keywords: Meat, Weeknight, Refrigerator, Stove Top, < 4 Hours

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 245
  • Fat Content: 17.4g
  • Saturated Fat Content: 5.7g
  • Cholesterol Content: 25.7mg
  • Sodium Content: 374.6mg
  • Carbohydrate Content: 14.7g
  • Fiber Content: 1.1g
  • Sugar Content: 1.2g
  • Protein Content: 7g

Rating:

  • Aggregated Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Review Count: 12

Serving Information:

  • Recipe Servings: 12

Ingredients:

  • Elbow macaroni: 2 cups
  • Green onions: 5, finely chopped
  • Tomatoes: 1 large, diced
  • Celery: 1 1/4 cups, finely chopped
  • Mayonnaise: 1 1/4 cups
  • White vinegar: 5 tablespoons
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
  • Bacon: 1 cup, cooked and crumbled

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Macaroni:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
    • Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables:

    • While the macaroni is cooking, chop the green onions, tomatoes, and celery.
    • Place these ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine the Macaroni and Vegetables:

    • Add the cooled macaroni to the bowl with the green onions, tomatoes, and celery.
    • Mix gently to combine.
  4. Prepare the Dressing:

    • In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Dress the Salad:

    • Pour the dressing over the macaroni mixture.
    • Toss everything together to ensure the macaroni and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
  6. Chill the Salad:

    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
    • Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
  7. Add the Bacon:

    • Just before serving, add the cooked and crumbled bacon to the salad.
    • Toss gently to incorporate the bacon evenly.
  8. Serve:

    • Serve the BLT Macaroni Salad cold.
    • Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Tips and Variations:

  • Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. Just add the bacon right before serving to keep it crispy.
  • Alternative Ingredients: For a healthier twist, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and light mayonnaise.
  • Add-ins: Feel free to enhance this salad with additional ingredients such as diced avocado, shredded lettuce, or even some shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.
  • Bacon: Make sure the bacon is well-cooked and crispy before adding it to the salad. You can use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.
  • Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to taste. You might want to add a bit more salt or pepper depending on your preference.

Presentation:

  • Serve the BLT Macaroni Salad in a large, colorful bowl to make it look as appealing as it tastes.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or additional chopped green onions for a touch of color and freshness.

Storage:

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Note that the salad may become a bit dry as the pasta absorbs the dressing over time. If needed, stir in a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving leftovers to restore its creamy texture.

Health Information:

While this BLT Macaroni Salad is delicious and satisfying, it is worth noting the nutritional content for those who are health-conscious. It is a moderate-calorie dish with a significant fat content, primarily from the mayonnaise and bacon. To make it lighter, consider the following modifications:

  • Use low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise.
  • Substitute turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative.
  • Incorporate more vegetables to increase fiber and reduce the overall calorie density.

Pairings:

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, especially grilled meats or sandwiches. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Grilled Chicken: The light and smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the creamy and savory elements of the salad.
  • Burgers: Serve alongside classic beef burgers or veggie burgers for a hearty meal.
  • Sandwiches: Pair with deli sandwiches, such as turkey or ham, for a balanced and satisfying lunch.
  • BBQ Ribs: The tangy and rich flavors of barbecue ribs provide a delightful contrast to the fresh and creamy salad.

This BLT Macaroni Salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the beloved flavors of a BLT sandwich with the comfort of a pasta salad. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the simplicity of preparation and the delightful blend of textures and tastes with every bite!

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